Unhealthy Air Quality Alert: Dhaka Hits AQI 141, Impacting Sensitive Groups

Dhaka’s air quality is often a concern, and recently it hit an unhealthy level for sensitive groups. At around 9:43 AM on a Saturday, the air quality index (AQI) soared to 141, placing Dhaka 13th among cities with the worst air quality globally. Lahore, Delhi, and Cairo topped the list, with AQI scores of 212, 177, and 170, respectively.

The AQI helps us understand how clean or polluted the air is. Scores range from ‘moderate’ (50-100), where sensitive individuals should limit outdoor activities, to ‘hazardous’ (301 and above), which can pose serious health risks.

In Bangladesh, the AQI is determined by five main pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. Dhaka struggles with air pollution, especially in winter when conditions worsen.

A recent statistic from the World Health Organization indicates that air pollution is responsible for about seven million deaths worldwide each year. This alarming figure highlights the urgent need for action. People face increased risks of stroke, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses due to poor air quality.

We can look back to understand this issue better. In the past, urban areas experienced pollution primarily from industrial growth and increased vehicle use. Today, similar issues persist, compounded by rapid population growth and insufficient infrastructure to manage waste effectively.

Social media is buzzing with reactions to Dhaka’s poor air quality. Many are using platforms like Twitter to express their concerns, sharing tips to protect themselves and their families. Discussions often revolve around the need for stricter regulations and better public health initiatives.

Addressing air pollution is crucial not just for Dhaka but globally. Governments and organizations must collaborate to improve air quality, ensuring healthier environments for everyone. For more insights on the impact of air pollution, check out this WHO report.

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